PANJIM: A large number of Muslims gathered at different police stations across the State on Saturday demanding immediate action against a social media user, who allegedly posted offensive comments about Prophet Muhammad and the Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi processions.
The crowd dispersed only after assurance by the police that due action will be initiated against the culprits.
Peaceful protests were held outside the Panjim, Margao, Mapusa, Bicholim and Ponda police stations. However, police persuaded them assuring that stern action will be taken against the culprits.
Earlier, South Goa SP Abhishek Dhania had posted on his X handle that an FIR had already been registered against unidentified user and South District Cyber Cell team has been constituted to thoroughly investigate the case regarding defamatory post on Instagram hurting religious sentiments received at Margao and Ponda police stations.
“FIR registered & #SouthDistrict cyber team is constituted to thoroughly investigate case registered against an unknown person regarding a defamatory post on Instagram hurting religious sentiments received at Margao & Ponda PS,” SP Dhania tweeted.
The Margao police have registered an offence under Section 295A of IPC against an unknown individual for a deliberate and malicious act intended to outrage religious sentiments. The complaint was filed by Junaid Shaik, prompting further investigation.
A large number of members from the Muslim community gathered at the Margao police station on Saturday, demanding the immediate arrest of the individual responsible for a derogatory post against Prophet Mohammed on social media. Despite heavy rain, they remained steadfast, refusing to leave the police premises until an arrest was made.
The sub-divisional police officer assured them that action would be taken, but they continued their protest. Similar gatherings occurred at the Maina-Curtorim and Fatorda police stations, where protesters demanded justice for the offensive post. Extra police forces were deployed to maintain order, and no untoward incidents were reported.
A Muslim leader emphasised the need to identify and take strict action against the person responsible for the offensive post, highlighting the impact on their religion and alleging that Muslims are being targeted. Most protesters hailed from Rumdamol, Davorlim, Margao, and Fatorda, urging the police to register a complaint.
Muslims from all over Ponda Taluka today gathered at Ponda Police Station and held day long peaceful dharnas protesting against derogatory comment made against Prophet Muhammad.
One of the protestors said, “Since Friday they are upset over post which hurt their religious sentiments. Goa is peaceful state with religious harmony in all community. Some one trying to destroy unity. Goa CM Pramod Sawant should conduct immediate probe.”
